Why Some Patients Choose Fluoride-Free Dentistry

What the Research Actually Says About Fluoride

Fluoride’s ability to harden tooth enamel and reduce cavity rates is well-documented. The American Dental Association (ADA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) endorse community water fluoridation as safe and effective. At the same time, a growing body of peer-reviewed research raises questions about fluoride at higher or prolonged exposure levels.

A 2020 study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that higher fluoride exposure during pregnancy was associated with lower IQ scores in children (Green et al., 2020). A 2012 meta-analysis published in Environmental Health Perspectives, reviewing 27 studies from China, found an association between high fluoride exposure and reduced IQ in children (Choi et al., 2012). The National Toxicology Program (NTP) released a systematic review in 2024 concluding that fluoride is “likely to be associated with lower IQ in children” at levels above 1.5 mg/L.

It is important to note that most of this research involves fluoride levels higher than what is found in U.S. drinking water (0.7 mg/L). Topical fluoride used in dental offices is a different exposure route than systemic ingestion. The debate is not settled, but it is real, and many patients understandably want to discuss it with their dentist.

Who Typically Seeks Fluoride-Free Dentistry?

Patients who seek fluoride-free dental care tend to fall into a few categories:

• Parents of young children who are concerned about cumulative fluoride intake from water, toothpaste, and dental treatments combined.
• Patients with thyroid conditions. Fluoride is a halide and may compete with iodine at thyroid receptor sites. Some endocrinologists and integrative medicine practitioners advise thyroid patients to minimize fluoride exposure, though research in this area is ongoing.
• Patients with autoimmune conditions who are following an integrative health protocol that minimizes potential environmental triggers.
• Health-conscious individuals who want to minimize their total toxic burden and prefer to avoid fluoride as a precautionary measure, even without a diagnosed condition.
• Patients who have dental fluorosis who prefer not to continue fluoride treatments.

None of these positions require believing that fluoride is acutely dangerous at standard doses. Many patients simply want a dental practice that respects their preference to avoid it without judgment or pushback.

How Rite Dentist Approaches Fluoride

At Rite Dentist in Valley Village, CA, all routine care is fluoride-free by default. We do not apply fluoride varnishes, use fluoride-containing polishing pastes, or recommend fluoride supplements. This is not a service “option” we upsell. It is our standard of care.

For cavity prevention, we use ozone therapy, hydroxyapatite-based products, and xylitol recommendations. For patients with active decay or high cavity risk, we discuss the evidence transparently and respect the patient’s informed decision about their own care. We will never pressure a patient to accept fluoride, and we will never judge a patient who declines it.

Dr. Maryet Nikkie Babrood, DDS is an IAOMT-affiliated dentist practicing in the San Fernando Valley since 2018. She has advanced training in biological dentistry, safe amalgam removal, and biocompatible restorative materials. Rite Dentist serves patients from Valley Village, Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Burbank, and surrounding Los Angeles communities.

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